*** Ramadan Magic Awakens | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Ramadan Magic Awakens

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A moon-tracking screen, Ramadan lights, and Gargee’an (children’s gift-giving celebration) will bring Bahrain to life this March as the Kingdom of Bahrain unveils a month-long tourism programme celebrating the holy month’s spirit.

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has launched its Ramadan in Bahrain programme, designed to immerse visitors in the traditions of the season.

The initiative, in partnership with both public and private sectors, will combine heritage, entertainment, and hospitality.

Manama Nights

This year marks the second Manama Nights, featuring nine shops and a mix of activities set against a backdrop of Ramadan-themed displays.

A Taybeen Games zone, featuring retro-style games, will offer a nod to the past, while a screen will display the moon’s phases throughout the month.

Traditional performances will also be part of the line-up, including lefraissa (horse-like masked folklore performer) and Al Wada’ (farewell ceremony), a cultural custom tied to the month’s final days.

The schedule begins on 1 March and runs through to 30 March. Manama Souq will also be part of the effort, with 12 shops and restaurants taking part.

Special Ramadan lighting will be installed, and a Musaher (Ramadan drummer) will make daily rounds, adding to the night-time atmosphere.

Visitors can attend from 7 pm to midnight, with closing extended to 1 am on weekends.

Beyond Manama, activities will be held along Muharraq’s Pearling Path, overseen by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA).

The Ministry of Information will also organise events at Heritage Village, offering a window into Bahrain’s past during Ramadan.

“The events will bring Bahrain’s traditions to life,” said BTEA CEO Sara Ahmed Buheji. “A wide-ranging promotional campaign will showcase the kingdom’s Ramadan spirit.”

Visitors from across the GCC are a key focus. To draw them in, travel discounts have been arranged for arrivals from neighbouring countries, alongside accommodation, transport, and entertainment packages.

Several four- and five-star hotels will offer iftar and Ghabga (late-night Ramadan feast) options, with social media promotions and the national portal bahrain.bh helping to spread the word.

Discounts

Shopping malls will run Ramadan discounts, while restaurants and hotels will put on special Eid events.

Special Eid holiday packages will bundle accommodation, transport, and outings, with a push to ensure they reach as many travellers as possible. The programme forms part of Bahrain’s 2022–2026 tourism strategy